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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has once again demonstrated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the security architecture of the state.
On Wednesday, the governor donated six Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to the Oyo State Police Command as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the state’s internal security and safeguard lives and property.
The APCs were formally presented to the state police authorities in Ibadan, the state capital, by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, who represented Governor Makinde at the event.
The governor described the donation as a strategic intervention in response to the prevailing security challenges facing the state and the nation at large.
Governor Makinde emphasized that the procurement of these APCs involved substantial financial resources, underlining the government’s seriousness about securing the state.
He stressed that the vehicles should be deployed solely for the purpose of protecting the public, curbing criminal activities, and maintaining law and order in the state.
In addition to the APCs, the governor disclosed that the state government is finalizing the acquisition of two advanced surveillance aircraft to bolster aerial monitoring and security operations across Oyo State.
He noted that these aircraft would play a critical role in tracking and curtailing the activities of illegal miners, kidnappers, and other criminal elements, particularly within the expansive hinterlands of the state.
Further details were provided in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade. According to him, the two aircraft, identified as DA 42 MNG models, are specialized Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance technology.
These aircraft have the capability to detect and identify targets both at high and low altitudes, enhancing the efficiency of security monitoring and response.
Oyelade also explained the government’s choice of these fixed-wing aircraft over helicopters. He stated that the DA 42 MNG models are more cost-effective to maintain, with spare parts readily available.
Furthermore, since the Nigerian Air Force already operates several units of this aircraft model, it opens opportunities for inter-agency collaboration and synergy in intelligence gathering and aerial patrols.
The commissioner acknowledged that while Oyo State enjoys a relatively peaceful atmosphere compared to other states in Nigeria, the government remains vigilant and proactive.
He admitted that there are still isolated cases of kidnappings and banditry in some areas, which the government is determined to address comprehensively through improved security infrastructure and collaboration with security agencies.
The government’s dual intervention—provision of APCs and procurement of surveillance aircraft—represents a robust and multi-layered approach to securing Oyo State.
Governor Makinde reiterated that the safety of residents remains a top priority of his administration, and that no effort or resources will be spared in ensuring peace and stability across the state.